955: Lizard Man - Side Show Business

Feb 19, 2026

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

As Monty Python would say, "and now for something completely different.” This podcast tries to explore all facets of our jewel we call magic. And one part of our entertainment community has its roots in the side show. Specifically, in the early to mid-1900's magicians were part of the traveling carnivals and performed side show acts using such illusions as the stocks, blade box, and more. But as the magicians went to the legitimate stage, the other side show performers stayed behind as independent nomads. But their business of finding work is just as important as magicians trying to find work. And for “freaks” in today’s world, there are fewer venues (and perhaps audiences) who can “stomach” watching some of their acts. Moreover, freaks have become less shocking as being obesely overweight and covered in tattoos are now common sites at your local WalMart shopping centers.

This week Lizard Man tells us about why he chose to pursue a life and a lifestyle different from the “norm” and his commitment to getting tattoos and body piercings all over his body. But part of the focus of our conversation is how similar yet different our two crafts are when it comes to marketing. Magicians have a community to help, support, and direct, but the side show community is less giving and supportive.

Download this podcast in an MP3 file by Clicking Here and then right click to save the file. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed by Clicking Here. You can download or listen to the podcast through Pandora and SiriusXM (formerly Stitcher) by Clicking Here or through FeedPress by Clicking Here or through Tunein.com by Clicking Here or through iHeart Radio by Clicking Here. If you have a Spotify account, then you can also hear us through that app, too. You can also listen through your Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Remember, you can download it through the iTunes store, too. See the preview page by Clicking Here.